We have a superfluity of coronavirus symptoms across the globe and today, we have an additional terrifying symptom to take into consideration. Nearly 40 cases of Mucormycosis, also known as black fungus, have been reported in Gujarat among those who have recovered from Covid-19. And eight people have lost their eyesight in Surat due to it. The sudden loss of vision is causing anxiety among the patients.
However, Mucormycosis, a fungal infection is still not a “big outbreak” in the country. This symptom is usually found in Covid-19 patients who are diabetic. Black fungus is caused by a fungus named mucor, found on wet surfaces. So far, we have reported from those who are diabetic and it is seldom we see Mucormycosis in non-diabetic person.
The impact of black fungus is dominant if a diabetes patient is taking immune suppressive medicines, steroids, or has cancer. Such patients need to avoid getting exposed to wet surfaces. Due to a few medicines used in covid patients such as life-saving dexamethasone, prednisolone, methylprednisolone, dexona, etc, the compounds in them suppress the immune system, causing fungus attacks in a diabetic patient.
Also, when a diabetic Covid-infected patient is put on oxygen support, which has a humidifier containing water, the chances of getting the fungal infection increases. When the fungus attacks, it is important to be treated immediately. But if left untreated or if the treatment is delayed, the condition can lead to the loss of vision, and in some cases increase mortality.
Talking about the symptoms of black fungus, it appears three days after recovering from the Covid-19 infection. Starting from the sinus, it invades the eyes, said ENT experts. In the next 24 hours, the black fungus can travel up to the brain. The fungus is absolutely treatable and to do so, the patient will be prescribed antifungal medication such as amphotericin B, posaconazole, or isavuconazole. These medicines can be taken orally or through IV. The infection also requires surgery to remove the infected tissue
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